Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez was officially introduced as the new head coach of Inter Miami on Tuesday, with his first match scheduled for Wednesday's Campeones Cup against Cruz Azul. Gonzalez faces the unique opportunity of potentially guiding Lionel Messi through the final stages of his playing career.
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Just over two weeks after reaching an agreement with the club, Gonzalez received his U.S. work visa, facilitating his unveiling. During a press conference in South Florida, he discussed the dynamic of managing his former international teammate, saying, “I have a very special relationship with him, so it feels more natural to me. But imagine my coaching staff; they were absolutely buzzing.” He acknowledged Messi's global significance, stating, “This is what Leo represents to everyone, not just in football, but in the world.”
Gonzalez and Messi played together for the Argentina national team, including during Messi's first senior international match in 2005, when Gonzalez comforted him after a red card against Hungary. At a training session with club co-owner David Beckham, Gonzalez detailed his management style, emphasizing the importance of communication. “I try to be who I am, the way I have always been with him. We have a very frequent dialogue,” he said. He expressed a desire to ensure Messi feels happy and content, saying, “Having him day-to-day fills me with excitement.”
As the third person to transition from teammate to coach for Messi, joining Lionel Scaloni and Javier Mascherano, Gonzalez's appointment positions him to potentially be Messi’s last coach in professional football. Inter Miami announced on September 15 that Gonzalez signed a contract running through June 2028. This aligns with Messi's contract with the club, which extends to December 2028, potentially allowing Gonzalez to oversee the final matches of Messi’s career when he turns 41.